ACCESSORY TOOL ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH EXTRACTION CLEANERS

Abstract

An accessory tool assembly adapted to couple with a hose of an extraction cleaner including a suction source includes a tool head and at least one fluid distributor for supplying and directing a cleaning fluid therethrough. The tool head includes a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein a longitudinal direction extends through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The tool head includes a working surface on an underside of the front end that defines a working surface edge. A plurality of agitators extend from the working surface adjacent to at least a portion of the working surface edge and define a first interior area therewithin. An extraction nozzle is positioned in the first interior area and defines at least a portion of a suction air inlet.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to and the benefit of under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/423,655, filed Nov. 8, 2022, entitled “ACCESSORY TOOL ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH EXTRACTION CLEANERS,” the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

This disclosure relates generally to accessory tools for use with extraction cleaners, and

more particularly to accessory tools which may be used with extraction cleaners having a fluid delivery system and a fluid recovery system.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Surface cleaners, such as vacuum cleaners, use suction to collect debris and/or fluid to clean soft surfaces, such as carpets, flooring, rugs, upholstery, and the like, as well as hard surfaces such as wood, vinyl, tile, composites, etc. Surface cleaners can be in the form of “wet” extraction cleaners that are used to clean surfaces by applying a cleaning solution and then extracting the cleaning solution and entrained debris.

Surface cleaners can be adapted to be hand-carried by a user, and in some cases include a hose coupled with an accessory tool. Accessory tools for use with surface cleaners typically include a suction nozzle through which liquid and entrained debris can be extracted from a surface during a cleaning process. Fluid-based or wet extraction cleaners include a housing that carries separate fluid delivery and recovery systems. The fluid delivery system directs the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned, while the fluid recovery system extracts the cleaning fluid and entrained debris from the surface and deposits the extracted fluid and debris in a recovery tank for disposal.

As part of the fluid delivery system, the cleaning fluid is dispensed from the above-described fluid supply tank, through a fluid supply conduit and onto the surface to be cleaned, such as through one or more nozzle orifices of the accessory tool or using an external spray nozzle. A suction source located aboard the extraction cleaner generates suction forces to extract spent fluid and entrained debris from the surface.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Disclosed herein are multiple aspects of an accessory tool assembly which may be utilized with a surface cleaner, such as an extraction cleaner. The disclosed accessory tool assembly can include features which make it useful for cleaning various types of surfaces, including but not limited to tile, grout, carpet and the like. The accessory tool assembly may be used with extraction cleaners having a steam delivery system, as well as with extraction cleaners not having a steam delivery system.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an accessory tool assembly adapted to couple with a hose of an extraction cleaner including a suction source includes a tool head and at least one fluid distributor for supplying and directing a cleaning fluid therethrough. The tool head includes a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein a longitudinal direction extends through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The rear end is configured to fluidly couple with the hose of the extraction cleaner. The tool head includes a working surface on an underside of the front end that defines a working surface edge. A plurality of agitators extend from the working surface adjacent to at least a portion of the working surface edge and define a first interior area therewithin. An extraction nozzle is positioned in the first interior area and defines at least a portion of a suction air inlet. The extraction nozzle and the suction air inlet include a longitudinal portion that extends in the longitudinal direction and a transverse portion that extends in the transverse direction.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an accessory tool assembly adapted to couple with a hose of an extraction cleaner including a suction source which includes a tool head. The tool head includes a front end and a rear end that is opposed to the front end. A longitudinal direction extends through the front and rear ends. A transverse direction extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The rear end is configured to fluidly couple with the hose of the extraction cleaner. A working surface on an underside of the front end defines a working surface edge. A plurality of agitators extend from the working surface adjacent at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewith. An extraction nozzle is positioned on the first interior area and defines at least a portion of a suction air inlet. The extraction nozzle and the suction air inlet each include a longitudinal portion that extends in the longitudinal direction and a transverse portion that extends in the transverse direction. At least one fluid distributor is provided for supplying and directing a cleaning fluid therethrough.

According to yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a surface cleaner including a fluid delivery system includes at least one fluid conduit fluidly coupled with at least one fluid distributor for supplying cleaning fluid to a surface being cleaned. The surface cleaner includes a recovery system that includes a suction hose fluidly coupled with a recovery tank and a suction source for extracting fluid and debris from the surface. The surface cleaner also includes an accessory tool assembly including a front and a rear end, the rear end opposed to the front end. A longitudinal direction extends through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The rear end is configured to fluidly couple with the hose of the extraction cleaner. The tool head also includes a working surface on an underside of the front end. A plurality of agitators extend from the working surface and define a first interior area therewithin. An extraction nozzle is positioned on the first interior area. The extraction nozzle defines at least a portion of a suction air inlet, wherein the extraction nozzle and the suction air inlet include a longitudinal portion that extends in the longitudinal direction.

According to one aspect, an accessory tool assembly is provided for use with an extraction cleaner having a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned and a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface. The accessory tool assembly includes: (i) a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; (ii) at least one fluid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a first fluid conduit; (iii) a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and (iv) a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending along the transverse direction.

According to another aspect, an accessory tool assembly is provided for use with an extraction cleaner having a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned and a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface. The accessory tool assembly includes: (i) a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; (ii) at least one fluid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a first fluid conduit; (iii) a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and (iv) a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending primarily along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending primarily along the transverse direction; (v) wherein the at least one fluid outlet is located adjacent and rearward of the suction air inlet.

According to yet another aspect, an accessory tool assembly for use with an extraction cleaner is provided, wherein the extraction cleaner has a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned, a steam delivery system for supplying steam to the surface, and a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface. The accessory tool assembly includes: (i) a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; (ii) a liquid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a liquid conduit and a steam outlet fluidly coupled with the steam delivery system through a steam conduit; (iii) a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and (iv) a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending primarily along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending primarily along the transverse direction.

According to a further aspect, a surface cleaner is provided, comprising: (i) a fluid delivery system comprising a first fluid conduit fluidly coupled with a first spray outlet for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned; (ii) a fluid recovery system including a suction hose fluidly coupled with a recovery tank and a suction motor for recovering fluid and debris from the surface; and (iii) an accessory tool assembly. The accessory tool assembly includes: (a) a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; (b) a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and (c) a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending along the transverse direction.

According to another further aspect, a surface cleaner is provided, comprising: (i) a fluid delivery system comprising a first fluid conduit fluidly coupled with a first spray outlet for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned; (ii) a steam delivery system comprising a second fluid conduit fluidly coupled with a second spray outlet for supplying steam to the surface; (iii) a fluid recovery system including a suction hose fluidly coupled with a recovery tank and a suction motor for recovering fluid and debris from the surface; and (iv) an accessory tool assembly. The accessory tool assembly includes: (a) a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; (b) a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and (c) a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending along the transverse direction.

According to yet another further aspect, an accessory tool assembly is provided for use with an extraction cleaner having a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned, a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface, and a wand configured to fluidly couple the accessory tool assembly to the suction hose, wherein a distal end of the wand carries at least one fluid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a first fluid conduit. The accessory tool assembly includes: (i) a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head containing therein an internal cavity and having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; (ii) a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; (iii) a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending primarily along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending primarily along the transverse direction; and (iv) at least one opening defined on the working surface in fluid communication with the internal cavity.

The above features and advantages, and other features and advantages, of the present teachings are readily apparent from the following detailed description of some of the best modes and other aspects for carrying out the present teachings, as defined in the appended claims, when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a surface cleaner and an accessory cleaning tool assembly, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a portable extraction cleaner having an accessory tool assembly, with a hose assembly wrapped around a main housing or pod for storage, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the portable extraction cleaner and accessory tool assembly of FIG. 2, with the hose assembly unwrapped from the main housing, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4A is a schematic diagram of one aspect of an accessory tool head and wand before being connected together, where the liquid and steam dispensers are carried by the tool head, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4B is a schematic diagram of the accessory tool head and wand of FIG. 4A after being connected together, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4C is a schematic diagram of another aspect of an accessory tool head and wand before being connected together, where the liquid and steam dispensers are carried by the tool wand, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4D is a schematic diagram of the accessory tool head and wand of FIG. 4C after being connected together, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an accessory tool assembly, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a fragmentary bottom view of the accessory tool assembly of FIG. 5, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary close-up perspective view of the underside of an accessory tool assembly having an opening and no liquid or steam distributors, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a fragmentary front view of an accessory tool assembly, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 is an isolated schematic view of a suction air inlet having an upside-down T shape, according to various aspects of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is an isolated schematic view of a suction air inlet having an upside-down funnel shape, according to various aspects of the present disclosure; and

FIGS. 11A-14D are isolated schematic views of a suction air inlet having various shapes, according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present illustrated embodiments reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to a cleaning tool for a surface cleaner. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have been represented, where appropriate, by conventional symbols in the drawings, showing only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present disclosure so as not to obscure the disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein. Further, like numerals in the description and drawings represent like elements.

For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof, shall relate to the disclosure as oriented in FIG. 1. Unless stated otherwise, the term “front” shall refer to a surface closest to an intended viewer, and the term “rear” shall refer to a surface furthest from the intended viewer. However, it is to be understood that the disclosure may assume various alternative orientations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific structures and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

The terms “including,” “comprises,” “comprising,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of elements does not include only those elements but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by “comprises a . . . ” does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

With reference to FIGS. 1-7, reference numeral 20 generally designates an accessory tool assembly adapted to couple with a hose 40 of a surface cleaner 22 including a suction source 52, such as an extraction cleaner. The accessory tool assembly 20 includes a tool head 42 and at least one fluid distributor 34 for supplying and directing a cleaning fluid therethrough. The tool head 42 includes a front end 128 and a rear end 122 that is opposed to the front end 128. A longitudinal direction 126 extends through the front and rear ends 128, 122 and a transverse direction 134 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 126. The rear end 122 is configured to fluidly couple with the hose 40 of the extraction cleaner 22. The tool head 42 includes a working surface 116 on an underside 118 of the front end 128 that defines a working surface edge 136. A plurality of agitators 138 extend from the working surface 116 adjacent to at least a portion of the working surface edge 136 and define a first interior area 140 therewithin. An extraction nozzle 45 is positioned in the first interior area 140 and defines at least a portion of a suction air inlet 46. The extraction nozzle 45 and the suction air inlet 46 include a longitudinal portion 158 that extends in the longitudinal direction 126 and a transverse portion 160 that extends in the transverse direction 134. The accessory tool assembly 20 described herein is illustrated as a hand-held cleaning tool which may be adapted for use with any suitable type of surface cleaner. While the attached drawings and the description below show and describe a portable extraction cleaner as an exemplary type of surface cleaner 22, this is merely for illustrative purposes, as the accessory tool assembly 20 may be used with any type of surface cleaner. Accordingly, it is within the scope of the disclosure for the surface cleaner to include any suitable cleaner, including, but not limited to, various dry vacuum cleaners, extraction cleaners, handheld cleaners, and upright surface 10. For example, the surface cleaner 22 may be in the form of a hand-carried extraction cleaner, an upright extraction cleaner, a canister extraction cleaner, and the like.

Portable surface cleaners, such as the surface cleaner 22, shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, and as described herein, are configured to be carried by a user to perform a cleaning operation, and are, therefore, portable. These portable surface cleaners may perform the same, or similar, functions as upright surface cleaners. Portable surface cleaners (e.g., portable extraction cleaners), and upright surface cleaners can provide a suction effect to extract debris that is on or in an underlying surface. In general, portable surface cleaners are smaller and lighter than upright surface cleaners. Optionally, the surface cleaner 22 may be in the form of a surface cleaner 22 with steam delivery. Additionally, the surface cleaner 22 may be an extraction cleaner that delivers cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned and that extracts the cleaning fluid and debris from the surface.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-3, the accessory tool assembly 20 can be coupled with the surface cleaner 22 to provide suction and/or deliver a cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleaned. As such, the surface cleaner 22 can include a body or pod including a main housing 24 that accommodates various components and functional systems of the surface cleaner 22. The surface cleaner 22 includes a fluid delivery system 26 that may be configured to store cleaning fluid and to deliver, or supply, the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned. The surface cleaner 22 also includes a recovery system 28 that may be configured to remove the fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned and to temporarily store (e.g., in a recovery tank) the recovered fluid and debris. Non-limiting examples of extraction cleaners that the accessory tool assembly 20 can be utilized with are disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019/0357748; U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,474,424; 8,549,697; 7,073,226; 10,188,252; and 9,107,558, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

The fluid delivery system 26 can more particularly be a liquid and/or a steam delivery system 26 configured to store cleaning fluid and to deliver the cleaning fluid to the surface to be cleaned as liquid, steam, or both. In some aspects, a portion of the fluid delivery system 26 may optionally include a steam delivery system 30, or the steam delivery system 30 may be viewed as being separate from the liquid/steam delivery system 26, or, in some examples, a steam delivery system 30 may be absent from the surface cleaner 22.

The main housing 24 can be adapted to selectively mount components of the fluid delivery system 26 and the recovery system 28 to form a unit that can be easily transported by a user to different locations having surfaces to be cleaned. The surface cleaner 22 may optionally be adapted to be hand carried by a user for portability. Non-limiting examples of areas that can be cleaned include floors (tile, hardwood, engineered wood, carpet, etc.), showers, baths, area rugs, upholstery, vehicle interiors, drapery, and mattresses.

Still referring to FIGS. 1-3, the fluid delivery system 26 can include a supply tank 32 for storing a supply of cleaning fluid, a first fluid distributor 34 (e.g., for a liquid) remote from the main housing 24, and a second fluid distributor 36 (e.g., for steam) remote from the main housing 24. A heater 38 may be provided in a flow path between the supply tank 32 and the steam distributor 36 to heat the cleaning fluid to produce steam. Note that as used herein, the terms “distributor”, “dispenser”, “sprayer” and “outlet” may be used interchangeably.

In one aspect, the fluid distributors 34, 36, or fluid outlets, are disposed on the accessory tool assembly 20, which may be coupled with the main housing 24 by a flexible hose 40. The accessory tool assembly 20 may include, in one aspect, an interchangeable tool head 42 and an optional wand 44. As described in more detail with respect to at least FIGS. 4A-D, the distributors 34, 36 can be provided on the wand 44 or on the tool head 42. The term “wand,” as used herein, may refer to a handle or grip or tool coupler that is fluidly coupled with the flexible hose at a distal end thereof. However, the term wand may also encompass the flexible hose 40 such that the wand 44 includes the flexible hose alone or in combination with the handle/grip component as is known in the art. In some implementations, a hose adapter 96 connects the flexible hose 40 to the main housing 24, such that the hose 40, the wand 44, and the hose adapter 96 form a removable hose assembly, with the wand 44 interchangeably receiving one of a variety of tool heads (e.g., 42, 62). The term “fluid distributors” may refer to fluid orifices which are configured to direct liquid therefrom in a desired direction. Further, the fluid distributors 34, 36 can define openings that are sized and shaped to achieve a desired pressure at the opening during a desired flow rate.

The cleaning fluid stored by the supply tank 32 can include one or more of any suitable cleaning liquid. The term “cleaning fluid,” as used herein, primarily encompasses fluids which are provided to a surface, and may include steam, water, compositions, concentrated detergent, diluted detergent, fragrances, deodorizers, etc., or mixtures thereof. For example, the fluid can comprise a mixture of water and concentrated detergent. The cleaning fluid can be stored in liquid form.

The supply tank 32 can be refillable and can be formed of a transparent or tinted translucent material, which permits a user to view the contents thereof. The supply tank 32 can be removably mounted on the main housing 24.

The heater 38 preferably heats the cleaning fluid to about 100° C., where “about” includes ±10° C. This temperature may be the temperature at the steam distributor 36. Since some heat loss between the outlet of the heater 38 and the steam distributor 36 is possible, the setpoint of the heater 38 may be higher. One non-limiting example of a setpoint for the heater 38 is from about 165° C. to about 180° C. Some non-limiting examples of a suitable heater 38 include, but are not limited to, a flash heater, a boiler, an immersion heater, and a flow-through steam generator.

The heater 38 may produce steam. As used herein, the term “steam” includes a cleaning fluid such as but not limited to water or solutions containing water (like water mixed with a cleaning chemistry, fragrance, etc.), at least partially converted to a gas or vapor phase. The cleaning fluid can be boiled or otherwise at least partially converted to the gas or vapor phase by heating. The cleaning fluid can be heated to around 100±10° C., alternately about 90° C. to 100° C., alternatively about 95° C. to 98° C. The steam produced by the heater 38 can have a steam quality of 100% or less, alternatively about 70% or greater, alternatively about 75% or greater, alternatively about 80% or greater, alternatively about 85% or greater, alternatively about 90% or greater, alternatively about 95% or greater, alternatively about 70-100%. As used herein, “steam quality” is the proportion of saturated steam in a saturated condensate (liquid) and steam mixture. For example, saturated steam vapor has a steam quality of 100%, and saturated liquid has a steam quality of 0%.

It is understood that, in some aspects, the temperature and/or steam quality may change between the heater 38 and the steam distributor 36, with heat loss and/or condensation lowering the temperature and/or steam quality of steam output by the steam distributor 36. In other aspects, the temperature and/or steam quality may be substantially the same at the heater 38 and at the steam distributor 36.

For example, the heater 38 may have a setpoint in the range of about 165° C. to about 180° C., however, the fluid dispensed by the steam distributor 36 (e.g., after traveling along about 5-6 foot of tubing between an outlet of the heater 38 and the steam distributor 36) may comprise steam having a steam quality less than about 100% and having a temperature of less than about 100° C. For example, the steam dispensed by the steam distributor 36 can have a steam quality in a range of from about 70% to about 100%, and can have a temperature in a range of from about 90° C. to about 100° C., about 90° C. to about 99° C., about 90° C. to about 98° C., about 90° C. to about 97° C., about 90° C. to about 96° C., about 90° C. to about 95° C., about 90° C. to about 94° C., about 94° C. to about 100° C., about 94° C. to about 99° C., about 94° C. to about 98° C., about 94° C. to about 97° C., about 94° C. to about 96° C., about 94° C. to about 95° C., about 95° C. to about 100° C., about 95° C. to about 99° C., about 95° C. to about 98° C., about 95° C. to about 97° C., about 95° C. to about 96° C., about 96° C. to about 100° C., about 96° C. to about 99° C., about 96° C. to about 98° C., about 96° C. to about 97° C., about 97° C. to about 100° C., about 97° C. to about 99° C., about 97° C. to about 98° C., about 98° C. to about 100° C., about 98° C. to about 99° C., or about 99° C. to about 100° C. Without wishing to be bound by theory, a difference in steam quality and temperature of the fluid exiting the heater 38 and the fluid dispensed from the steam distributor 36 may be due at least in part to loss of heat to the surrounding environment as the fluid travels between the heater 38 and the steam distributor 36.

The recovery system 28 includes an extraction pathway 37, or suction pathway, that may terminate in an extraction nozzle 45 for the accessory tool assembly 20 forms or defines a “suction air inlet” 46, which is adapted to be used on the surface to be cleaned. The recovery system 28 also includes a flexible hose 40 defining or including at least a portion of a vacuum or suction conduit 50 that is in fluid communication with the extraction nozzle 45 and a recovery tank 48 along the extraction pathway 37. The recovery tank 48 can be removably mounted on the main housing 24 to dispose of the recovered fluid(s) and/or debris therefrom. In this way, the recovery system 28 may be in the form of a fluid and/or debris recovery system.

The recovery system 28 further includes a suction source 52, such as a motor/fan assembly including, for example, a vacuum motor 54, that is in fluid communication with the extraction nozzle 45 for generating a working airflow to draw liquid and entrained debris from the suction air inlet 46 and through the extraction pathway 37. The suction source 52 can be provided fluidly downstream of the recovery tank 48 such that recovered fluid and debris can be deposited into the recovery tank 48, although other extraction paths are possible. In this way, the extraction nozzle 45 and the flexible hose 40 can be in fluid communication with the suction source 52 to form at least a portion of an extraction pathway 37 that generates a working airflow to draw liquid and entrained debris through the accessory tool assembly 20. The term “debris,” as used herein, may include dirt, dust, soil, hair, loose material, or other messy substances, etc. The term “recovered fluid,” as used herein, primarily encompasses liquids which are recovered from a surface, and may include water, gunk, grime, filthy compositions, cleaning fluids, etc., or mixtures thereof.

Referring to FIGS. 2-3, various arrangements for the housing 24 and tanks 32, 48 are possible. In one arrangement, the main housing 24 can include a carry handle 56 to form an easy-to-carry unit with the supply and recovery tanks 32, 48 that can be transported by a user to different locations with surfaces to be cleaned. The main housing 24 can further include a base 58 on which the supply and recovery tanks 32, 48 are at least partially supported, and a partition 60 extending upwardly from the base 58, between the supply and recovery tanks 32, 48. In some examples, the partition 60 can include an enclosure that houses one or more components of the surface cleaner 22, such as the heater 38 and the suction source 52.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the accessory tool assembly 20 and hose 40 are shown stored on the main housing 24, for example with the hose 40 wrapped around the base 58 and the tool 20 clipped or otherwise attached to the housing 24. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the accessory tool assembly 20 and hose 40 are shown in one non-limiting example of a use or operational position, where the accessory tool assembly 20 is free of the housing 24 and the hose 40 is unwound and extends from the base 58, while remaining fluidly coupled to the housing 24.

Optionally, more than one hand-held cleaning tool or tool accessory can be provided with the surface cleaner 22. As shown in FIG. 2, a first tool head 42 is shown connected with the wand 44 and a second tool head 62 is shown stored on the main housing 24. Each of the tool heads 42, 62 may be configured to selectively attach to the wand 44 and/or with the hose 40. Thus, the first tool head 42 may be decoupled, or removed, from the wand 44 or hose 40 and exchanged for the second tool head 62. The tool heads 42, 62 can include different configurations in order to perform different cleaning tasks more effectively. By way of non-limiting example, the first tool head 42 may have a smaller width (e.g., 3 inches) to more effectively clean smaller areas or tight spaces and the second tool head 62 may have a larger width (e.g., 4-5 inches) to more effectively/efficiently clean larger areas. The wand 44 or tool heads 42, 62 may include one or more spray triggers 64 for dispensing cleaning fluid and/or steam. A fastening mechanism 66 (e.g., a release button) may be provided on a tool head 42, 62 and/or on the wand 44 and/or hose 40 for fastening the head 42, 62 and wand 44 and/or hose 40 together.

With reference to FIG. 3, a user interface 68 may be provided through which the user can provide inputs to control the surface cleaner 22, including the systems or components thereof. The user interface may be provided on the surface cleaner 22 but is not limited to such a location. For example, at least a portion of the user interface 68 controls may be provided on the tool head(s) 42, 62. As described in further detail below, the user interface 68 receives inputs to control a supply of power from a power source of the surface cleaner 22 to one or more electrical components of the surface cleaner 22. The power source of the surface cleaner 22 can, for example, include a power cord 70 that is electrically coupled to a mains power supply, or a battery onboard the surface cleaner 22. The illustrative user interface 68 is shown adjacent the carry handle 56. However, other configurations for the user interface 68 are possible.

Referring to FIG. 1, various other components and combinations of components can be incorporated into the fluid and steam delivery systems 26, 30, such as pumps, valves, and/or fluid control features, as well as suitable conduits or tubing fluidly connecting the components of the fluid and steam delivery systems 26, 30 together to effect the supply of cleaning fluid and/or steam to the distributors 34, 36.

As illustrated, the fluid delivery system 26 includes a flow control system for controlling the flow of fluid from the supply tank 32 to the distributors 34, 36. In one configuration, the flow control system can include a liquid supply pump 72, which pressurizes a liquid dispensing path 74 of the fluid delivery system 26 and enables the delivery of cleaning fluid to the liquid distributor 34. The fluid delivery system 26 and/or the steam delivery system 30 can include a steam supply pump 76 which pressurizes a steam dispensing path 78 of the fluid delivery system 26 and/or the steam delivery system 30 and enables the delivery of steam to the steam distributor 36. The pumps 72, 76 can be any suitable pump, such as, but not limited to, a solenoid pump, a centrifugal pump, or the like. While separate pumps 72, 76 are illustrated for supplying fluid to the distributors 34, 36, respectively, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for a single, split, or multi-stage pump to be utilized to supply fluid to the distributors 34, 36.

In some implementations, the liquid pump 72 can deliver cleaning fluid at a higher flow rate than the steam pump 76. In one non-limiting example, the liquid to steam flow rate ratio is about 4:1 to about 30:1. In specific implementations, the liquid to steam flow rate ratio may be about 10:1. In another non-limiting example, the liquid pump 72 delivers cleaning liquid at a flow rate of about 300-1,000 mL/min (measured at the liquid distributor 34) and the steam pump 76 delivers steam at a flow rate of about 30-100 mL/min (measured at the steam distributor 36). In specific implementations, the liquid pump 72 delivers cleaning liquid at a flow rate of about 400 mL/min and the steam pump 76 delivers steam at a flow rate of about 40 mL/min. Further, the pumps 72, 76 may have multiple speeds and/or flow rates such that a flow rate of cleaning fluid expelled from the distributors 34, 36 can be varied. For example, the user interface 68 may include inputs to control regulation of the pumps 72, 76 such that a user may vary the flow rate of the cleaning fluid being expelled. In specific implementations, at least a portion of the user interface 68 is provided on the accessory tool assembly 20.

The liquid dispensing path 74 and steam dispensing path 78 can include one or more ducts, tubing, hoses, etc. to fluidly couple the components of the fluid delivery system 26 together. As illustrated in FIG. 1, portions of the suction conduit 50, the liquid dispensing path 74, and the steam dispensing path 78 can be included in the hose 40 and the accessory tool assembly 20. In some implementations, the paths 74, 78 can include separate liquid and steam lines, or conduits 80, 82, respectively, that are routed through, or otherwise disposed on, the hose 40 for transferring cleaning liquid and/or steam to the outlets/distributors 34, 36 for dispensing therethrough. The suction conduit 50 may be fluidly connected to the extraction nozzle 45 to transfer liquid and entrained debris to the recovery tank 48. In one implementation, one or both of the liquid and steam conduits 80, 82 can be routed along an exterior of the suction conduit 50. In yet another implementation, a portion of one or both of the liquid and steam conduits 80, 82 can be routed through an interior of the hose 40 and a portion of one or both of the liquid and steam conduits 80, 82 can be routed along an exterior of the suction conduit 50. In another implementation, the suction, liquid and steam conduits 50, 80, 82 may extend through the optional wand 44 and/or hose 40, as described in greater detail below with respect to at least FIGS. 4A-D. Thus, various suitable air, liquid, and steam connectors can be provided at either end of the hose 40 and/or wand 44 for connection with the fluid delivery system 26 and the recovery system 28, such as, components of the main housing 24 and the accessory tool assembly 20, as described in further detail below.

Still referring to FIG. 1, and in some aspects, dispensing of cleaning fluid may be at least partially controlled by the user at the accessory tool assembly 20. For example, the surface cleaner 22 can include dispensing valves 84, 86 that control the flow of cleaning fluid through the distributors, 34, 36, respectively. The distributors 34, 36 may be configured to distribute cleaning fluid upon “opening” of the dispensing valves 84, 86. Aside from this function, the dispensing valves 84, are not particularly limited, and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use in/as a dispensing valve. The dispensing valves 84, 86 can, for example, be disposed on the wand 44 and/or hose 40 or the tool heads 42, 62 of the accessory tool assembly 20, and may be associated with appropriate user controls for operating the valves 84, 86, such as one or more triggers 64. In this way, the trigger(s) 64 may permit the flow of fluid through conduits and the accessory tool assembly 20, which is described in more detail with respect to at least FIGS. 4A-D.

A check valve 88 may be provided in the fluid path between the supply tank 32 and the heater 38. The check valve 88 can, for example, be provided in the fluid path downstream of the pump 76 and upstream of the heater 38. In another aspect, the check valve 88 can be provided in the fluid path downstream of the supply tank 32 and upstream of the pump 76. The check valve 88 can provide unidirectional flow of fluid through the path 78 by preventing backflow into the supply tank 32. In this way, the check valve 88 may also be configured for unidirectional flow into or through the heater 38 (e.g., in one direction from the supply tank 32 to the heater 38). Aside from this function, the check valve 88 is not particularly limited, and may comprise any components and/or configurations suitable for use in/as a check valve. In some aspects, when present, the check valve 88 may inhibit forward flow of liquid from the supply tank 32 in the event of negative pressure in the fluid path 78, which may result as the heater 38 cools. Therefore, the check valve 88 may inhibit and/or minimize creepage of liquid from the supply tank 32 through the path 78 when the heater 38 is de-activated after use and/or when the heater 38 is activated but the user is not actively dispensing steam. The creepage of liquid from the supply tank 32 after de-activation of the heater 38 may result in liquid remaining in the path 78 such that the next time the user utilizes the cleaner 22 in a mode or operation that includes steam, this liquid remaining in the path 78 from the previous use could be dispensed in front of the steam, which may be undesirable to the user.

Still referring to FIG. 1, a first or positive pressure relief device 90 may be provided in the fluid path between the supply tank 32 and the hose 40 to control, or limit, a pressure in the fluid delivery system 26. The pressure relief device 90 can open at a predetermined positive pressure threshold to protect the fluid delivery system 26 from being subjected to high pressures that exceed its design criteria. When the threshold pressure is met or exceeded, the pressure relief device 90 can divert cleaning fluid through a bypass line 92 to the recovery tank 48. Aside from this function, the pressure relief device 90 is not particularly limited, and may comprise any components and/or configurations suitable for use in/as a pressure relief. In one implementation, the pressure relief device 90 is a spring valve that opens at a predetermined threshold value.

During steam generation, pressure builds in the fluid delivery system 26 unless the pressure is released. Pressure is released, for example, by dispensing steam from the steam distributor 36. When the heater 38 is activated and there is a blockage in the steam dispensing path 78 or the steam valve 86 otherwise remains closed for a period of time, pressure will build in the in the fluid delivery system 26 as liquid is heated and steam is generated. When the pressure in the fluid delivery system 26 reaches the threshold pressure value, the pressure relief device 90 opens, and cleaning fluid circulates to the recovery tank 48 via the bypass line 92, thereby allowing pressure to “vent” via the recovery system 28. Once pressure in the fluid delivery system 26 drops below the threshold value, which may occur if steam is released from the path 78 or if the cleaner 22 is powered off, the pressure relief device 90 closes. The recovery tank 48 is fluidly coupled with the airflow generated by the suction source 52, or vacuum motor 54, such that the recovery tank 48 can vent to atmospheric pressure by way of a vacuum motor exhaust path when the vacuum motor 54 is powered off.

The predetermined threshold pressure value may be, for example, about 10 PSI (pounds per square inch), about 11 PSI, about 12 PSI, about 13 PSI, about 14 PSI, or about 15 PSI, although it is understood that the predetermined threshold pressure value may vary depending on the design limits of the portable surface cleaner 22. In some aspects, the pressure relief device 90 can be configured to begin opening when a first predetermined threshold pressure value is reached and then fully open when a second predetermined threshold pressure value, greater than the first, is reached. For example, the pressure relief device 90 can be configured to begin to open when the pressure reaches about 10 PSI and fully open when the pressure reaches about 15 PSI.

In some aspects, an optional second or negative pressure relief device 94 is provided in the steam dispensing path 78 as is illustrated in FIG. 1. The second pressure relief device 94 can be configured to open to the ambient environment at a predetermined threshold negative pressure value. Aside from this function, the pressure relief device 94 is not particularly limited, and may include any components and/or configurations suitable for use in/as a pressure relief. In one implementation, the second pressure relief device 94 is a spring valve that opens at a predetermined set pressure, or threshold pressure value.

As the heater 38 cools (e.g., when the surface cleaner 22 is powered off or the user selects a mode that does not include steam), a negative pressure may be generated in the steam dispensing path 78. The surface cleaner 22 may attempt to equalize this pressure by drawing liquid from the fluid delivery system 26 into the steam dispensing path 78. This may result in liquid remaining in the steam dispensing path 78 during storage or in between use conditions. This liquid remaining in the steam dispensing path 78 may then be dispensed the next time the user opens the valve 86, which may be surprising and undesirable. In addition, liquid remaining in the steam dispensing path 78 during long storage periods may not be desirable. The second pressure relief device 94 can be configured to open to atmosphere at the predetermined threshold negative pressure value, e.g., −1 PSI, to prevent or minimize the amount of liquid drawn into the steam dispensing path 78 from the fluid delivery system 26 during cooling of the heater 38. Once pressure in the steam dispensing path 78 rises above the set negative pressure threshold value, the pressure relief device 94 closes.

With reference to FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the surface cleaner 22 can include one or more tool holders which store the accessory tool assembly 20 and at least one of the interchangeable tool heads 42, 62, and a hose wrap on the base 58 to support the hose 40 wound around the base 58 for storage (see FIG. 3). The hose 40 can couple with the hose coupler 96 (see FIG. 4) on the base 58. By way of non-limiting example, the tool holders can be disposed on a front side 98 of the housing 24 and the hose coupler 96 can be disposed on a rear side 100 of the housing 24 to provide ample space for storing the respective components on the main housing 24 of the surface cleaner 22. The hose 40 may wrap at least once, and optionally more than once, around the base 58 to store the connected accessory tool assembly 20 on the tool holder.

The surface cleaner 22 can include a cord wrap 102 for the power cord 70 on the rear side 100 but is not limited to such a position. In a cordless aspect where the surface cleaner 22 includes a rechargeable battery, the cord wrap 102 and power cord 70 may not be provided. In such an aspect, a battery or battery pack can be provided on the main housing 24 and may, optionally, be removable from the main housing 24 for charging or replacing.

Turning now to FIGS. 4A-D, various configurations and implementations of the accessory tool assembly 20 are shown in schematic form. The accessory tool assembly 20 includes one or more of the fluid distributors or outlets (e.g., 34, 36) for supplying a fluid to a surface being cleaned. In specific implementations, the accessory tool assembly 20 is separable from the one or more fluid distributors (e.g., 34, 36) of the surface cleaner 22. FIGS. 4A-B show one example in which the first and second fluid distributors 34, 36 are carried on the tool head 42, and FIGS. 4C-D show another example in which the first and second fluid distributors 34, 36 are carried on the end of the wand 44 (or alternatively on the accessory hose 40) that is inserted into the tool head 42. Note that in FIGS. 4A-D, reference numeral “44, (40)” indicates that the structure pointed to is the wand 44, and/or the accessory hose 40. As previously discussed, the term “wand,” as used herein, may refer to a handle or grip or tool coupler that is fluidly coupled with the flexible hose 40 at a distal end thereof. However, the term wand may also encompass the flexible hose 40 such that the wand 44 includes the flexible hose 40 alone or in combination with the handle/grip/tool coupler component as is known in the art. In either case, the illustrative suction conduit 50 and the illustrative first and second fluid conduits (e.g., the liquid conduit and the steam conduit) 80, 82 run through or along the wand 44 or hose 40. In this way, the suction conduit 50 and the first and second fluid conduits (e.g., the liquid conduit and the steam conduit) 80, 82 may be routed internal to a grip region of the wand 44/hose 40, thereby minimizing the area of the grip region for a more comfortable user experience.

FIG. 4A illustrates the exemplary tool head 42 and wand 44 (or accessory hose 40) prior to being fluidly coupled. Note that the tool head 42 carries the suction nozzle, or extraction nozzle 45 that includes the suction inlet 46, the first fluid dispenser/distributor 34 and optionally the second fluid dispenser/distributor 36 (e.g., a steam dispenser/distributor), as well as a suction conduit 104, a first fluid conduit 106 and a second fluid conduit 108 that are in fluid communication with the suction inlet 46, the first distributor 34 and the second distributor 36, respectively. The tool wand 44 (or hose 40) similarly carries the suction conduit 50 for fluid coupling with the suction conduit 104 (50), the first fluid conduit 80 for fluid coupling with the first fluid conduit 106, and a second fluid conduit 82 for fluid coupling with the second fluid conduit 108. The tool head 42 and the wand 44 each carry respective connectors, couplings or connection points 110 that enable fluid communication, to allow flow of suction, a first fluid and/or a second fluid (e.g., steam) between the tool head 42 and the wand 44 (or hose 40) via the lines 104, 50, 106, 80, 108, 82. As illustrated, the fluid distributors 34, 36 are disposed between the extraction nozzle and the rear end of the tool head 42.

FIG. 4B illustrates the tool head 42 and wand 44 of FIG. 4A in a coupled, or inserted, position. In the illustrated connected arrangement, the suction conduit 104, the first fluid conduit 106 and the second fluid conduit 108 run fluidly and uninterruptedly through both the tool head 42 and the wand 44. In this way, the connection points 110 enable fluid-tight seals between the suction conduits 104, 50, the first fluid conduits 106, 80 and the second fluid conduits 108, 82 of the tool head 42 and the wand 44 (or hose 40).

As illustrated in FIG. 4C, the exemplary tool head 42 carries the suction nozzle, or extraction nozzle 45, the suction conduit 104 for fluid communication with the suction air inlet 46, and an internal cavity 112 (shown in dashed lines). The internal cavity 112 can include or define one or more openings 114, or channels, that are in fluid communication with a working surface 116 on an underside 118 of the tool head 42. A rear port 120 is disposed at a rear end 122 of the tool head 42. In this configuration, the tool head 42 itself may not carry or include the first and second fluid distributors 34, 36. Instead, the distributors 34, 36 can be carried on a front or distal end 124 of the wand 44 (or accessory hose 40), which can be inserted into the internal cavity 112 of the tool head 42. The distributors 34, 36 are in fluid communication with the respective first and second fluid conduits 106, 108 (80, 82). As illustrated, the wand 44 (or hose 40) also carries or contains the suction conduit 104 (50) and the suction coupling connection point 110 on the distal end 124 of the wand 44 (or hose 40). The rear port 120, the internal cavity 112, and the one or more opening(s) 114, can be configured, oriented and arranged for accepting insertion of the distal end 124 of the wand and/or hose 44, 40 through the rear port 120 and into the internal cavity 112 (see FIG. 4D), such that upon such insertion, the suction coupling(s) 110 on the wand and/or hose 44, 40 sealably couple the suction conduit 104 carried by the tool head 42 with the suction conduit 50 carried by the wand and/or hose 44, 40, and the first and second dispensers 34, 36 are positioned and oriented for permitting fluids (such as cleaning fluid and steam, respectively) to be dispensed therefrom through the one or more opening(s) 114. In one implementation, both distributors 34, 36 may be surrounded by a singular opening 114. Optionally, each of the distributors 34, 36 may be surrounded by its own respective opening 114.

Note that while FIGS. 4A-D show first and second fluid distributors 34, 36, aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to or required to have two fluid distributors. For example, the accessory tool assembly 20 may include a single fluid distributor, two fluid distributors, or more than two fluid distributors. Also, each of the one or more of the fluid distributors may dispense a liquid (e.g., water, cleaning fluid, pre-spotter solution, etc.) or steam. Additionally, while the spray distributors 34, 36 are shown as being aligned along a longitudinal direction 126, the spray distributors 34, 36 are not so limited and may be arranged or oriented in any suitable spatial arrangement or orientation.

FIGS. 5-8 show various views of the accessory tool assembly 20 according to various aspects of the present disclosure. More specifically, FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the accessory tool assembly 20, FIG. 6 shows a fragmentary bottom view of the accessory tool assembly 20 of FIG. 5, FIG. 7 shows a fragmentary close-up perspective view of the underside 118 of the accessory tool assembly 20, and FIG. 8 shows a fragmentary front view of the accessory tool assembly 20.

As previously discussed, the accessory tool assembly 20 is provided for use with a surface cleaner 22, which may be in the form of an extraction cleaner, having the fluid delivery system 26, the recovery system 28, and, optionally, the steam delivery system 30. As previously described, the accessory tool assembly 20 may include multiple configurations, such as (i) the configuration described with respect to FIGS. 4A-B in which the accessory tool assembly 20 may include a tool head 42 having the suction air inlet 46 and liquid/steam distributors 34, 36, or (ii) the configuration described with respect to FIGS. 4C-D in which the accessory tool assembly 20 may include a tool head 42 with a suction air inlet 46 and the internal cavity 112 that is configured to receive a wand 44 (or hose 40) that carries the liquid/steam distributors 34, 36. Because these and other configurations are within the scope of the disclosure, the descriptions of the accessory tool assembly 20 or tool head 42 below herein may also apply to other configurations. For example, at least some of the descriptions relating to the two configurations described with respect to at least FIGS. 4A-D, may also apply to the accessory tool assembly 20 shown and described with respect to FIG. 5.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the accessory tool assembly 20 includes a tool head 42 having a front end 128 and a rear end 122 opposed to the front end 128. The front and rear ends 128, 122 define respective forward and rearward directions 130, 132. A longitudinal direction 126 extends through the front and rear ends 128, 122, while a transverse direction 134 extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 126.

As previously discussed with respect to at least FIGS. 4A-B, in some aspects the tool head 42 contains the suction conduit 104 therein and at least one fluid conduit, such as the liquid conduit 106 and the steam conduit 108. Therefore, the suction conduit 104 can be configured to connect at the rear end 122 to the fluid recovery system 28 and each of the liquid/steam conduit(s) 106, 108 can be configured to connect at the rear end 122 to a respective one of the fluid and steam delivery systems 26, 30. These connections at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42 may be facilitated by appropriate fluid connectors or fittings 110 that are disposed or situated on the rear end 122 of the tool head 42.

Turning now to FIGS. 6-7, the working surface 116 on the underside 118 of the front end 128 of tool head 42 is illustrated in more detail. The working surface 116 may be circumscribed, surrounded or bordered by a working surface edge 136 thereabout. Stated in another way, the working surface 116 may define the working surface edge 136, which may be in the form of a peripheral edge. A plurality of agitators 138 may be disposed on the working surface 116, or extend/project therefrom, along and adjacent to the working surface edge 136, and on a first interior area 140, which may be defined within or inboard of the working surface edge 136 (and/or within or inboard of the plurality of agitators 138 adjacent to the working surface edge 136). The agitators 138 may extend entirely or partially around a perimeter of the working surface 116 defined by the working surface edge 136. As best seen in FIG. 6, agitators 138a disposed on the first interior area 140 may include a different shape and/or size from agitators 138b adjacent to the working surface edge 136. For example, the agitators 138a disposed on the first interior area 140 may be narrower and include a cylindrical shape, while the agitators 138b adjacent to the working surface edge 136 may be wider and include a tapered shape. In this way, the agitators 138a disposed on the first interior area 140 may be stiffer than the agitators 138b adjacent to the working surface edge 136. Accordingly, the agitators 138b may include more flexure so that the surface is more evenly contacted by agitators 138a and 138b of both configurations/locations. The agitators 138, 138a, 138b may be in the form of any suitable agitation feature, which may include, but is not limited to: bristles, nub protrusions, paddles, strips, tufts, brushes, needles, etc.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the plurality of agitators 138, together, may have a generally V-shaped profile 142 as viewed along the longitudinal direction 126 (such as looking in the rearward direction 132 from a position in front of the tool 20). The V-shaped profile 142 may include a mid-line region 144 forming an apex 146 at the front end 128. The V-shaped profile 142 may include a first height 148 from the working surface 116 of the underside 118 to the surface to be cleaned, and a transverse region 150 on either transverse side 152 of the middle region 144, with each of the transverse sides 152 terminating in a respective shoulder 154. The shoulder 154 can extend to a second height 156 from the working surface 116 of the underside 118 to the surface to be cleaned that is less than the first height 148. In this way, the plurality of agitators 138 may increase in length from the rear end 122 to the front end 128 of the accessory tool assembly tool head 42. Therefore, the plurality of agitators 138 proximate the front end 128 may be longer than the plurality of agitators 138 proximate the rear end 122, which may aid in cleaning of stubborn stains from hard surfaces (e.g., tile), especially into corners and crevices (e.g., grout).

As illustrated in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the suction air inlet 46 (which is defined by the suction nozzle) is provided within the first interior area 140. The suction air inlet 46 is in fluid communication with the suction conduit(s) 104, 50, and each of the at least one fluid distributors 34, 36 are in fluid communication with a respective one of the first and second fluid conduits 106, 108. As previously described, the at least one fluid distributor 34, 36 may be at least one of a liquid distributor 34 and a steam distributor 36, with the first and second fluid conduits 106, 108 being liquid and steam conduits, respectively. As shown in FIG. 6, the one or more fluid distributors 34, 36 may be disposed rearward (i.e., in a rearward direction 132) relative to the suction air inlet 46.

Turning now to FIGS. 9-14D, various isolated schematic views of the suction air inlet 46 are illustrated showing examples of a variety of shapes in which the suction air inlet 46 may be provided according to various aspects described herein. In one implementation which is illustrated in at least FIG. 9 and FIG. 10, the suction air inlet 46 may include a first, longitudinal portion 158 that runs or extends primarily along the longitudinal direction 126. The suction air inlet 46 may also include a second, transverse portion 160 that runs or extends primarily along the transverse direction 134. In other implementations, as illustrated in FIG. 11A, the suction air inlet 46 has a single longitudinal portion 158 and as illustrated in FIG. 11B the suction air inlet 46 has a single transverse portion 160, whereas as illustrated in FIGS. 9-10 and 11C-14D the suction air inlet 46 has at least one first, longitudinal portion 158 and at least one second, transverse portion 160. (Note that the shapes shown in FIGS. 11A-14D utilize the same directional axes 126, 130, 132, 134 and the same orientation described with respect to the front end 128 and the rear end 122 of the tool head 42 on the page as shown in FIGS. 9-10.)

As previously described, each first, longitudinal portion 158 runs or extends primarily along the longitudinal direction 126, and each second, transverse portion 160 runs or extends primarily along the transverse direction 134. For example, as exemplified in FIG. 9, the longitudinal portion 158 may have a length extending in the longitudinal direction 126 and a width extending in the transverse direction 134, wherein the length is greater than the width (i.e., the first, longitudinal portion 158 extends further in the longitudinal direction 126 than in the transverse direction 134). In this way, as exemplified in FIG. 9, the second, transverse portion 160 may have a length extending in the transverse direction 134 and a width extending in the longitudinal direction 126, wherein the length is greater than the width (i.e., the second, transverse portion 160 extends further in the transverse direction 134 than in the longitudinal direction 126). Note that while the first, longitudinal portion 158 and the second, transverse portion 160 illustrated in the drawings are generally straight, these portions 158, 160 may also have curved, ovaloid, chamfered, beveled, or other shapes.

Each first, longitudinal portion 158 of the suction air inlet 46 shape may have a forward end 162 and a rearward end 164. The forward end 162 and the rearward end 164 may correspond with the front end 128 and the rear end 122, respectively, of the tool head 42 of the accessory tool assembly 20. In some configurations, the suction air inlet 46 may include a first, longitudinal portion 158 and a second, transverse portion 160 which crosses, or traverses, the first, longitudinal portion 158 at the forward end 162, the rearward end 164 or somewhere between the forward and rearward ends 162, 164. For example, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 12C-D, the suction air inlet 46 may have a generally upside-down T-shape 166, wherein the second, transverse portion 160 may be positioned at the rearward end 164 of the first, longitudinal portion 158. In another implementation, as shown in FIGS. 12A-B, the suction air inlet 46 may have a generally right side up T-shape 168, wherein the second, transverse portion 160 may be positioned at the forward end 162 of the first, longitudinal portion 158. (Note that as used herein, a “T-shape” or a “general T-shape” may include a generally upside-down T-shape 166, a generally right side up T-shape 168, and any rotations of either of these shapes 166, 168.) Alternatively, the suction air inlet 46 may have a generally cruciform shape 170 (e.g., having an “x” or “+” or cross shape, or any rotations of these shapes), as shown in FIGS. 11C-D.

As a further example, the suction air inlet 46 may have a generally right side up funnel shape 172 as illustrated in FIGS. 13A-B and 14A-B, or a generally upside-down funnel shape 174 as shown in FIGS. 10, 13C-D and 14C-D. Some of these funnel shapes 172, 174 may include both the first, longitudinal and the second, transverse portions 158, 160 and may further include a third, transitional portion 176 which bridges or connects the first, longitudinal portion 158 and the second, transverse portion 160.

As shown in FIGS. 9-14D, each suction air inlet 46 may be defined by suction air inlet edges (e.g., 180, 182 as described hereinafter) that are defined on the working surface 116 within the first interior area 140. These edges may be constructed so as to form various advantageous shapes which form the suction air inlet 46 and that are described herein with respect to FIGS. 9-14D. Accordingly, the edges that form at least a portion of the suction air inlet 46 define a second interior area 178, inset from the first interior area 140. The suction air inlet edges may include one or more longitudinal edges 180 which run or extend generally and primarily along the longitudinal direction 126, one or more transverse edges 182 which run or extend generally and primarily along the transverse direction 134, and/or one or more diagonal edges 184 which run diagonally (i.e., non-orthogonally and non-parallel) with respect to each of the longitudinal and transverse directions 126, 134. Each of these edges 180, 182, 184 may be generally straight or curved.

A respective group of one or more longitudinal edges 180, one or more transverse edges 182 and/or one or more diagonal edges 184 may define each first, longitudinal portion 158, each second, transverse portion 160 and each third, transitional portion 176 of the suction air inlet 46. For example, in the upside-down T shape 166 shown in FIG. 9, the first, longitudinal portion 158 is defined by one short transverse edge 182 (at the forward end 162 of the first, longitudinal portion 158) and two long longitudinal edges 180, while the second, transverse portion 160 is defined by one long transverse edge 182, two short transverse edges 182 located slightly forward of the one long transverse edge 182, and two short longitudinal edges 180. As another example, in the upside-down funnel shape 174 shown in FIG. 10, the first, longitudinal portion 158 is defined by one short transverse edge 182 and two long longitudinal edges 180, the second, transverse portion 160 is defined by one long transverse edge 182 and two short longitudinal edges 180, and the third, transitional portion 176 is defined by two diagonal edges 184.

The shape of the suction air inlet 46 may have relatively sharp corners—such as in FIGS. 9, 11A-C, 12A, 12C, 13A, 13C, 14A and 14C— or the shape of the suction air inlet 46 may have relatively rounded corners—such as in FIGS. 10, 11D, 12B, 12D, 13B, 13D, 14B and 14D.

It may be noted that the provision of the at least one first, longitudinal portion 158 of the suction air inlet 46 may facilitate extraction of fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned when the accessory tool assembly 20 is moved across the surface to be cleaned in a side-to-side or transverse direction 134, while the provision of the at least one second, transverse portion 160 of the suction air inlet 46 may facilitate extraction of fluid and debris when the accessory tool assembly 20 is moved across the surface in a forward-and-backward or longitudinal direction 126. In this way, the provision of both the first, longitudinal and second, transverse portions 158, 160—such as in the generally T-shaped arrangements 166, 168, the generally cruciform-shaped arrangements 170, and generally funnel-shaped arrangements 172, 174 shown in FIGS. 9-10 and 11C-14D— may encourage extraction in both directions of movement by the accessory tool assembly 20.

Additionally, the generally T-shaped airpath of the suction air inlet 46, as well as the other shapes for the suction air inlet 46 disclosed herein (e.g., other shapes which provide both a first, longitudinal portion 158 and a second, transverse portion 160), provide improved extraction of fluid and debris from the surface to be cleaned. One benefit of the suction air inlet 46 shape that provides both a first, longitudinal portion 158 and a second, transverse portion 160, may be an increase of the width at which fluid and debris may be extracted in both the longitudinal and transverse directions 126, 134.

As shown in FIGS. 6-7 and 9-10, an optional wall or ridge 186 can extend or protrude outward from the working surface 116 of the underside 118 of the tool head 42 within the first interior area 140, thereby defining a third interior area 188 therewithin. (For example, the third interior area 188 may be bounded and defined by an interior wall surface 190 of the wall 186.) In some aspects, the wall 186 forms at least a portion of the extraction nozzle 45. The wall 186 includes a perimeter 192 thereabout and a distal edge 194 that extends along the perimeter 192. The wall 186 may be made of a polymeric and/or elastomeric material, and may be formulated to have a desired stiffness which facilitates scrubbing the wall 186 against the surface to be cleaned. In some implementations, the desired stiffness facilitates effective cleaning of stubborn stains from hard, and possibly porous, surfaces such as, tile and grout.

In one aspect, the wall 186 may at least partially surround the suction air inlet 46, and in other aspects the wall 186 may fully surround the suction air inlet 46. Thus, the wall 186 may be in a corresponding shape to the shape of the suction air inlet 46. In some aspects, the wall 186 may include a plurality of crenulations, or notches 196, formed in the distal edge 194 of the wall 186. These notches 196 may all be of the same width and depth, may be of different widths and depths, may be regularly spaced around the ambit of the wall's perimeter 192, or may be spaced irregularly about the perimeter 192. In some examples, the wall 186 includes a transition region 197 which includes a larger spacing between the notches 196 (e.g., than that of a majority of the spaces between notches 196), which may provide a more rigid mid-region where the shape/direction of the wall 186 changes for additional stability.

As with the shape of the suction air inlet 46, the wall 186 (if present) may have relatively sharp corners or relatively rounded corners. These corners of the wall 186 may optionally conform with the shape of the respective corners of the suction air inlet 46, or they may differ or deviate from the corners of the suction air inlet 46. In some aspects, the wall 186 may be positioned such that its interior wall surface 190 is substantially flush with the edges 180, 182, 184 which define the suction air inlet 46 and the second interior area 178, as is shown in FIGS. 6-7; in this arrangement, the third interior area 188 (which may be defined by the interior wall surface 190 of the wall 186) may be substantially the same as the second interior area 178. In other aspects, the wall 186 may be somewhat spaced outward and apart from the edges 180, 182, 184, which define the suction air inlet 46 as is shown in FIGS. 9-10; in this arrangement, a small strip of the working surface 116 of the underside 118 of the tool head 42 may separate the edges 180, 182, 184 from the wall 186 around some or all of the suction air inlet 46.

The wall 186 may be used as a scrubber when the accessory tool assembly 20 is used to clean tile, grout, carpet and other surfaces. For example, the wall 186 may provide scrubbing action against the surface to be cleaned, so as to further enhance the extraction of fluid and lodged debris from the surface through the suction air inlet 46. The notches 196 may facilitate uptake of debris and/or liquid through the suction air inlet 46 during such a scrubbing maneuver as suction can flow evenly despite the tool head 42 being pressed onto a surface, especially on a flat, hard surface. As illustrated in the drawings, the wall 186 may form a continuous, closed loop or circuit around the suction air inlet 46, or the wall 186 may include one or more breaks, or relatively large notches 196, in the loop or circuit.

As previously discussed, the tool heads 42, 62 of the accessory tool assembly 20 may be configured for selective attachment and detachment with at least one of an accessory hose 40 and an accessory wand 44 at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42. Additionally, the tool head 42 may be configured for selective attachment and detachment to the fluid delivery system 26, the steam delivery system 30 and/or the fluid recovery system 28 at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42, such as by the inclusion of appropriate connectors or fittings 110 at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42 which may mate and fluidly connect with corresponding connectors or fittings 110 on the wand 44 or accessory hose 40.

As illustrated in FIGS. 4C-D and 7, the accessory tool assembly 20 is provided for use with the surface cleaner 22 having the fluid delivery system 26, the optional steam delivery system 30, the recovery system 28 (having the suction hose 40, and the wand 44 configured to fluidly couple the accessory tool assembly 20 to the suction hose 40) wherein the distal end 124 of the wand 44 carries at least one of the fluid distributors 34, 36 that are fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system 26 through the first fluid conduit 106.

In this aspect, the accessory tool assembly 20 includes the tool head 42 having the front end 128 and the rear end 122 opposed to the front end 128, wherein the front and rear ends 128, 122 define respective forward and rearward directions 130, 132, the longitudinal direction 126 running through the front and rear ends 128, 122 and the transverse direction 134 running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 126. The tool head 42 contains therein the internal cavity 112 and the working surface 116 on the underside 118 of the front end 128 of the tool head 42 with the working surface 116 being circumscribed by the working surface edge 136 thereabout, and wherein the rear end 122 of the tool head 42 is configured to fluidly couple with the recovery system 28 through the suction hose 40. The plurality of agitators 138 extend from the working surface 116 along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge 136 and define the first interior area 140 therewithin. A suction air inlet 46 is provided having the first, longitudinal portion 158 extending primarily along the longitudinal direction 126 and the second, transverse portion 160 extending primarily along the transverse direction 134. At least one opening 114 is provided on the working surface 116 in fluid communication with the internal cavity 112. In some examples, the at least one opening 114 is in alignment with the suction air inlet 46.

The rear port 120 may be disposed or located at the rear end 122 of the tool head 42, which is in fluid communication with the internal cavity 112, with the rear port 120 and internal cavity 112 being configured for accepting insertion of the distal end 124 of the wand 44 through the rear port 120 and into the internal cavity 112, such that upon such insertion the at least one fluid distributor 34, 36 is positioned for dispensing fluid therefrom through the at least one opening 114. Upon insertion of the distal end 124 of the wand 44 through the rear port 120 and into the internal cavity 112, the at least one fluid distributor 34, 36 may be disposed adjacent and rearward of the suction air inlet 46 and may optionally be positioned within the first interior area 140. Optionally, one or more of the fluid distributors 34, 36 may be disposed within the first interior area 140 between the extraction nozzle 45 and the rear end of the tool head 42.

The tool head 42 may further include the wall 186 extending outward from the working surface 116 within the first interior area 140 and at least partially surrounding the suction air inlet 46. The plurality of notches 196 may optionally be formed in the distal edge 194 of the wall 186.

The suction air inlet 46 may be generally T-shaped, wherein the second, transverse portion 160 may optionally be positioned at the rearward end 164 of the first, longitudinal portion 158, or the suction air inlet 46 may be generally cruciform-shaped. The suction air inlet 46 may further include the third, transitional portion 176 bridging the first, longitudinal and second, transverse portions 158, 160, wherein the suction air inlet 46 is generally funnel-shaped.

While the accessory tool assembly 20 is shown on a portable device that is adapted to be hand carried by a user for cleaning relatively small areas, in other aspects the functional systems of the surface cleaner 22 can be arranged into other configurations, such as an upright device having a base and an upright body for directing the base across the surface to be cleaned, a canister device having a cleaning implement connected to a wheeled base by a vacuum hose, or a commercial device. Any of the aforementioned cleaners can be adapted to include a flexible vacuum hose, which can form a portion of the working air conduit between a nozzle and the suction source. However, the accessory tool assembly 20 is not limited for use with the aforementioned cleaners and the accessory tool assembly 20 may be utilized with any suitable surface cleaning apparatus.

While the surface cleaner 22 is illustrated as an extraction cleaner, in other aspects the surface cleaner 22 includes a steam delivery function such that the surface cleaner 22 has steam delivery capability but not extraction capabilities. Optionally, the surface cleaner 22 may be in the form of a “dry” vacuum cleaner, which does not include steam or “wet” extraction functional systems.

To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various aspects of the present disclosure may be used in combination with each other as desired. Thus, the various features of the different aspects may be mixed and matched as desired to form new aspects, whether or not the new aspects are expressly described herein.

The following Clauses provide representative configurations of an accessory tool assembly and an extraction cleaner as disclosed herein.

Clause 1: An accessory tool assembly for use with an extraction cleaner having a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned and a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface, the accessory tool assembly comprising: a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; at least one fluid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a first fluid conduit; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending primarily along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending primarily along the transverse direction.

Clause 2: The accessory tool assembly of clause 1, wherein the tool head carries the at least one fluid outlet or is separable from the at least one fluid outlet.

Clause 3: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 1-2, wherein the accessory tool assembly further includes a wand configured to fluidly couple the rear end of the tool head to the suction hose, and wherein the at least one fluid outlet is carried by the wand.

Clause 4: The accessory tool assembly of clause 3, wherein the working surface includes an opening adjacent to the suction air inlet, and wherein when the tool head is coupled with the wand, the first spray outlet is aligned with the opening.

Clause 5: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 1-4, wherein the at least one fluid outlet is disposed adjacent and rearward of the suction air inlet.

Clause 6: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 1-5, wherein the at least one fluid outlet includes a first fluid outlet and a second fluid outlet.

Clause 7: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 1-6, wherein the at least one fluid outlet includes a liquid outlet and a steam outlet.

Clause 8: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 1-7, wherein the at least one fluid outlet and the suction air inlet are provided within the first interior area.

Clause 9: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 1-8, wherein the suction air inlet is provided on the working surface.

Clause 10: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 1-9, wherein the tool head further includes a wall extending outward from the working surface within the first interior area and at least partially surrounding the suction air inlet.

Clause 11: The accessory tool assembly of clause 10, wherein a plurality of notches is formed in a distal edge of the wall.

Clause 12: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 1-11, wherein the plurality of agitators has a generally V-shaped profile as viewed along the longitudinal direction.

Clause 13: The accessory tool assembly of clause 12, wherein the V-shaped profile has: a middle region forming an apex extending to a first height from the working surface; and a transverse region on either transverse side of the middle region with each of the transverse sides terminating in a respective shoulder extending to a second height from the working surface that is less than the first height.

Clause 14: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 1-13, wherein the suction air inlet is generally T-shaped.

Clause 15: The accessory tool assembly of clause 14, wherein the second, transverse portion is positioned at a rearward end of the first, longitudinal portion.

Clause 16: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 1-15, wherein the suction air inlet is generally cruciform-shaped.

Clause 17: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 1-16, wherein the suction air inlet further includes a third, transitional portion bridging the first, longitudinal and second, transverse portions, wherein the suction air inlet is generally funnel-shaped.

Clause 18: An accessory tool assembly for use with an extraction cleaner having a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned and a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface, the accessory tool assembly comprising: a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; at least one fluid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a first fluid conduit; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending primarily along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending primarily along the transverse direction; wherein the at least one fluid outlet is located adjacent and rearward of the suction air inlet.

Clause 19: An accessory tool assembly for use with an extraction cleaner having a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned, a steam delivery system for supplying steam to the surface, and a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface, the accessory tool assembly comprising: a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; a liquid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a liquid conduit and a steam outlet fluidly coupled with the steam delivery system through a steam conduit; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending primarily along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending primarily along the transverse direction.

Clause 20: A surface cleaner, comprising: a fluid delivery system comprising a first fluid conduit fluidly coupled with a first spray outlet for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned; a fluid recovery system including a suction hose fluidly coupled with a recovery tank and a suction motor for recovering fluid and debris from the surface; and an accessory tool assembly comprising: a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending along the transverse direction.

Clause 21: The surface cleaner of clause 20, further comprising: a steam delivery system comprising a second fluid conduit fluidly coupled with a second spray outlet for supplying steam to the surface.

Clause 22: A surface cleaner, comprising: a fluid delivery system comprising a first fluid conduit fluidly coupled with a first spray outlet for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned; a steam delivery system comprising a second fluid conduit fluidly coupled with a second spray outlet for supplying steam to the surface; a fluid recovery system including a suction hose fluidly coupled with a recovery tank and a suction motor for recovering fluid and debris from the surface; and an accessory tool assembly comprising: a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head further having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; and a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending along the transverse direction.

Clause 23: The surface cleaner of clause 22, wherein the tool head carries the first and second spray outlets or is separable from the first and second spray outlets.

Clause 24: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-23, further comprising: a wand configured to fluidly couple the rear end of the tool head to the suction hose, wherein the first and second spray outlets are carried by the wand.

Clause 25: The surface cleaner of clause 24, wherein the working surface includes an opening adjacent to the suction air inlet, and wherein when the tool head is coupled with the wand, the first and second spray outlets are aligned with the opening.

Clause 26: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-25, wherein the first and second spray outlets are disposed adjacent and rearward of the suction air inlet.

Clause 27: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-26, wherein the first and second spray outlets and the suction air inlet are disposed within the first interior area.

Clause 28: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-27, wherein the suction air inlet is provided on the working surface.

Clause 29: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-28, wherein the tool head includes a wall extending outward from the working surface within the first interior area and at least partially surrounding the suction air inlet.

Clause 30: The surface cleaner of clause 29, wherein a plurality of notches is formed in a distal edge of the wall.

Clause 31: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-30, wherein the plurality of agitators has a generally V-shaped profile as viewed along the longitudinal direction.

Clause 32: The surface cleaner of clause 31, wherein the V-shaped profile has: a middle region forming an apex extending to a first height from the working surface; and a transverse region on either transverse side of the middle region with each of the transverse sides terminating in a respective shoulder extending to a second height from the working surface that is less than the first height.

Clause 33: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-32, wherein the suction air inlet is generally T-shaped.

Clause 34: The surface cleaner of clause 33, wherein the second, transverse portion is positioned at a rearward end of the first, longitudinal portion.

Clause 35: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-34, wherein the suction air inlet is generally cruciform-shaped.

Clause 36: The surface cleaner of any of clauses 22-35, wherein the suction air inlet further includes a third, transitional portion bridging the first, longitudinal and second, transverse portions, wherein the suction air inlet is generally funnel-shaped.

Clause 37: An accessory tool assembly for use with an extraction cleaner having a fluid delivery system for supplying fluid to a surface being cleaned, a fluid recovery system including a suction hose for recovering fluid and debris from the surface, and a wand configured to fluidly couple the accessory tool assembly to the suction hose, wherein a distal end of the wand carries at least one fluid outlet fluidly coupled with the fluid delivery system through a first fluid conduit, the accessory tool assembly comprising: a tool head having a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein the front and rear ends define respective forward and rearward directions, a longitudinal direction running through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction running perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, the tool head containing therein an internal cavity and having a working surface on an underside of the front end with the working surface being circumscribed by a working surface edge thereabout, and wherein the rear end of the tool head is configured to fluidly couple with the fluid recovery system through the suction hose; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface along and around at least a portion of the working surface edge and defining a first interior area therewithin; a suction air inlet having a first, longitudinal portion extending primarily along the longitudinal direction and a second, transverse portion extending primarily along the transverse direction; and at least one opening defined on the working surface in fluid communication with the internal cavity.

Clause 38: The accessory tool assembly of clause 37, further comprising: a rear port disposed at the rear end of the tool head in fluid communication with the internal cavity, the rear port and internal cavity being configured for accepting insertion of the distal end of the wand through the rear port and into the internal cavity, such that upon such insertion the at least one fluid outlet is positioned for dispensing fluid therefrom through the at least one opening.

Clause 39: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 37-38, further comprising: a steam delivery system for supplying steam to the surface.

Clause 40: The accessory tool assembly of any of clauses 37-39, wherein upon insertion of the distal end of the wand through the rear port and into the internal cavity, the at least one fluid outlet is disposed adjacent and rearward of the suction air inlet.

Clause 41: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 37-40, wherein the at least one fluid outlet includes a first fluid outlet and a second fluid outlet.

Clause 42: The accessory tool assembly of clause 39, wherein the at least one fluid outlet includes a liquid outlet and a steam outlet.

Clause 43: The accessory tool assembly of clause 38, wherein upon insertion of the distal end of the wand through the rear port and into the internal cavity, the at least one fluid outlet is positioned within the first interior area.

Clause 44: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 37-43, wherein the suction air inlet is defined on the working surface.

Clause 45: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 37-44, wherein the tool head further includes a wall extending outward from the working surface within the first interior area and at least partially surrounding the suction air inlet.

Clause 46: The accessory tool assembly of clause 45, wherein a plurality of notches is formed in a distal edge of the wall.

Clause 47: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 37-46, wherein the plurality of agitators has a generally V-shaped profile as viewed along the longitudinal direction.

Clause 48: The accessory tool assembly of clause 47, wherein the V-shaped profile has: a middle region forming an apex extending to a first height from the working surface; and a transverse region on either transverse side of the middle region with each of the transverse sides terminating in a respective shoulder extending to a second height from the working surface that is less than the first height.

Clause 49: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 37-48, wherein the suction air inlet is generally T-shaped.

Clause 50: The accessory tool assembly of clause 49, wherein the second, transverse portion is positioned at a rearward end of the first, longitudinal portion.

Clause 51: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 37-50, wherein the suction air inlet is generally cruciform-shaped.

Clause 52: The accessory tool assembly of clause any of clauses 37-51, wherein the suction air inlet further includes a third, transitional portion bridging the first, longitudinal and second, transverse portions, wherein the suction air inlet is generally funnel-shaped.

The above description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive. While the dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to be illustrative, they are by no means limiting and are exemplary configurations. In the following claims, use of the terms “first”, “second”, “top”, “bottom”, etc. are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical or positional requirements on their objects. As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural of such elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly stated. Additionally, the phrase “at least one of A and B” and the phrase “A and/or B” should each be understood to mean “only A, only B, or both A and B”. Moreover, unless explicitly stated to the contrary, configurations “comprising” or “having” an element or a plurality of elements having a particular property may include additional such elements not having that property. And when broadly descriptive adverbs such as “substantially” and “generally” are used herein to modify an adjective, these adverbs mean “mostly”, “mainly”, “for the most part”, “to a significant extent”, “to a large degree” and/or “at least 51 to 99% out of a possible extent of 100%”, and do not necessarily mean “perfectly”, “completely”, “strictly”, “entirely” or “100%”.

This written description uses examples, including the best mode, to enable those skilled in the art to make and use devices, systems and compositions of matter, and to perform methods, according to this disclosure. It is the following claims, including equivalents, which define the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An accessory tool assembly adapted to couple with a hose of an extraction cleaner including a suction source, the accessory tool assembly comprising:

a tool head, comprising: a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein a longitudinal direction extends through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, further wherein the rear end is configured to fluidly couple with the hose of the extraction cleaner; a working surface on an underside of the front end; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface defining a first interior area therewithin; and an extraction nozzle positioned in the first interior area and defining a suction air inlet, wherein the suction air inlet includes a longitudinal portion that extends in the longitudinal direction and a transverse portion that extends in the transverse direction.

2. The accessory tool assembly of claim 1, wherein the tool head includes an internal cavity that is configured to receive at least one fluid distributor carried by a hose of an extraction cleaner upon insertion of a distal end of the hose.

3. The accessory tool assembly of claim 2, wherein the internal cavity defines an opening that is disposed adjacent and rearward of the suction air inlet.

4. The accessory tool assembly of claim 1, further comprising at least one fluid distributor for supplying and directing a cleaning fluid therethrough.

5. The accessory tool assembly of claim 4, wherein the at least one fluid distributor is disposed within the first interior area between the extraction nozzle and the rear end of the tool head.

6. The accessory tool assembly of claim 5, wherein the at least one fluid distributor comprises a first fluid distributor and a second fluid distributor.

7. The accessory tool assembly of claim 1, wherein the tool head further comprises a wall extending from the working surface, thereby forming at least a portion of the extraction nozzle and at least partially surrounding the suction air inlet.

8. The accessory tool assembly of claim 7, wherein a plurality of crenulations are formed in a distal edge of the wall.

9. The accessory tool assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of agitators includes a V-shaped profile as viewed along the longitudinal direction.

10. The accessory tool assembly of claim 1, wherein the suction air inlet is one of T-shaped or cruciform-shaped.

11. The accessory tool assembly of claim 1, wherein the plurality of agitators further include a first set of agitators disposed on the first interior area and a second set of agitators extending along the working surface edge, wherein the first set of agitators include a different shape from the second set of agitators.

12. A surface cleaner, comprising:

a fluid delivery system comprising at least one fluid conduit fluidly coupled with at least one fluid distributor for supplying cleaning fluid to a surface being cleaned;

a recovery system including a suction hose fluidly coupled with a recovery tank and a suction source for extracting fluid and debris from the surface; and

an accessory tool assembly comprising: a front end and a rear end opposed to the front end, wherein a longitudinal direction extends through the front and rear ends and a transverse direction extends perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, further wherein the rear end is configured to fluidly couple with the hose of the surface cleaner; a working surface on an underside of the front end; a plurality of agitators extending from the working surface defining a first interior area therewithin; an extraction nozzle positioned on the first interior area, the extraction nozzle defining at least a portion of a suction air inlet, wherein the extraction nozzle and the suction air inlet include a longitudinal portion that extends in the longitudinal direction; and an internal cavity that is configured to receive a distal end of the suction hose.

13. The surface cleaner of claim 12, wherein the internal cavity defines an opening configured to permit fluids to be dispensed onto a surface therethrough.

14. The surface cleaner of claim 12, wherein the internal cavity is configured to receive at least one fluid distributor carried by the suction hose.

15. The surface cleaner of claim 14, wherein the at least one fluid distributor includes an intermediate channel that is tangential to a fluid conduit such that a flow of fluid through the fluid conduit changes direction at the intermediate channel.

16. The surface cleaner of claim 15, wherein the at least one fluid distributor comprises a first fluid distributor and a second fluid distributor.

17. The surface cleaner of claim 12, wherein the extraction nozzle and the suction air inlet include a transverse portion that extends in the transverse direction.

18. The surface cleaner of claim 12, wherein the accessory tool assembly further comprises a wall extending from the working surface, thereby forming at least a portion of the extraction nozzle and at least partially surrounding the suction air inlet.

19. The surface cleaner of claim 18, wherein a plurality of crenulations are formed in a distal edge of the wall.

20. The surface cleaner of claim 12, comprising at least one fluid distributor disposed within the first interior area between the extraction nozzle and the rear end of the accessory tool assembly.